Lupus: Potential Complications and How to Safeguard Your Health

Lupus is a chronic disease that causes the immune system to attack healthy tissues. You may notice its hallmark rash first on the face, but its health effects are often felt throughout the body.

Our award-winning team at Allergy A.R.T.S., recognized as the Best of Amarillo, Texas, in Rheumatology and Allergy, is committed to excellence in diagnosing and treating chronic diseases like lupus.

Read these tips from our team about managing lupus and preventing long-term health complications.

Understanding lupus

Lupus causes inflammation, pain, and sometimes long-term damage to various body parts.

There are several types of lupus. The most common is systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), which can affect multiple organs, including the skin, joints, blood vessels, kidneys, heart, lungs, and brain.

Less common types of lupus include cutaneous lupus (affecting only the skin) and drug-induced lupus, which is triggered by certain medications. Neonatal lupus, which affects newborns, is rare and may be linked to maternal autoantibodies.

Treatment for lupus varies according to type and severity but typically involves reducing inflammation, managing the faulty immune response, and avoiding common triggers like excessive sun exposure when possible.

Common lupus complications

Health complications associated with lupus include:

Kidney issues (lupus nephritis)

Lupus nephritis occurs when lupus causes kidney inflammation, leading to long-term damage if it is not treated.

Tips for preventing kidney complications include regular monitoring with urine and blood tests to help detect early signs of kidney involvement. Maintaining a nutritious, low-sodium diet and staying hydrated can help protect kidney health.

Cardiovascular disease

Lupus increases the risk of heart attacks, stroke, and blood vessel damage related to chronic inflammation.

Regular exercise, a heart-healthy diet, and avoiding smoking can help minimize cardiovascular risks. Monitoring blood pressure and cholesterol levels and addressing abnormalities early is also crucial.

Lung complications

Lupus-related lung inflammation increases your risk of pleuritis (inflammation of the lung lining), pulmonary hypertension (high blood pressure in lung arteries), and other serious respiratory complications.

Avoiding smoking, treating infections promptly, and routine monitoring by your Allergy A.R.T.S. provider helps prevent lung complications.

Joint pain

Joint pain is a hallmark of lupus. It often causes swelling, stiffness, and limited mobility, which impacts quality of life and daily activities.

Physical therapy, stretching exercises, and low-impact activities like swimming or cycling can ease joint discomfort. Anti-inflammatory diets rich in antioxidants may also help reduce joint inflammation.

Neurological and mental health issues

Lupus can affect the nervous system and brain, leading to seizures, mood disorders, and cognitive challenges, including memory loss. Managing stress, a healthy diet, and ensuring adequate sleep can support neurological health.

Skin problems

Lupus frequently affects the skin, resulting in rashes, sensitivity to sunlight, and even hair loss. Wearing sunscreen daily, avoiding prolonged sun exposure, maintaining good hydration, and using gentle skin care products help protect sensitive skin.

Safeguarding your health

At Allergy A.R.T.S., we consider an accurate diagnosis and effective treatment strategy critical to managing lupus and preventing long-term health complications.

Following your specialist’s guidance regarding prescribed medications helps maintain disease control and prevent flare-ups. Routine monitoring through regular medical check-ups, blood tests, and urine studies allows us to detect and treat potential complications early.

We also encourage lifestyle adjustments such as an anti-inflammatory diet, a joint-friendly exercise routine, restful sleep, and other healthy habits that can reduce the effects of lupus and help protect overall health.

Get started on safeguarding your health from the effects of lupus by scheduling a visit at Allergy A.R.T.S. today.